ix. 6. _For unto us a Child is born, &c._
+I. The Incarnation and Government of Jesus Christ.+ Let us
contemplate Him, 1. _As the Incarnate One._ "Unto us a child is born"
(H. E. I. 846-853). 2. _As a gift of Heaven to a fallen world._ "Unto
us a Son is given." 3. _As advanced to supreme rule and authority._
"The government shall be upon His shoulder." +II. The names and
characters by which He is distinguished.+ "His name," &c. +III. The
adaptation of these qualities to the purposes of His spiritual
reign.+ 1. We need wisdom, and He is the "counsellor." 2. We need
reconciliation to God, and He is our "Peace." 3. We need support
under the calamities of life, and this He gives us, for He is the
"Mighty God." 4. We need comfort under the fears of death, and this
He gives as "The Father of the Everlasting Age."--_George Smith, D.D._